Saturday , May 24. Tipperary

May 24
The movement to the starting line is under way. Last evening the bike, tucked safely into its box, started on the first leg of the journey to San Francisco. After re-assembly it will have a relatively quiet week before the long 4000 mile haul begins. This journey will be as much a challenge for the bike as it will be for me. But, I think we can do it together.
Got a few greeting cards today and the messages were encouraging. ‘Wishing you good luck. You can do it!’ and ‘When the hills and heat get tricky, just think of all the children’s’ lives you are changing.’ ' Dig deep... No pressure; pressure is only for tyres. We are all proud of you' These messages of goodwill from people I am very proud of, do make a great difference and the cumulative effect is one of mighty encouragement . I'll bring copies of those messages with me and look to them for that extra bit of energy during the dog days.

I paid my final visit to the physio yesterday and received a clean bill of health. ‘You’re in excellent shape and the muscles are all ready for the journey’

Got an encouraging send-off by the Abbey students and staff at the end of the annual Abbey Sports Day, a unique day in our school. All the staff have been very supportive (to me and to Providence) during the long preparation.